Which symptom would indicate potential DCS?

Joint and muscle pain is often referred to as "the bends," which is a classic symptom of decompression sickness (DCS). DCS occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body due to rapid ascent or inadequate decompression after being exposed to increased pressure underwater. As divers ascend, the drop in pressure can cause dissolved nitrogen to form bubbles in the tissues and bloodstream, leading to various symptoms.

Pain can manifest in the joints and muscles due to inflammation and irritation caused by these bubbles. It's particularly significant since the joints are typically the areas most affected, mirroring the pain experienced in scenarios familiar to many divers. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for a diver's safety, as timely treatment is essential to mitigate the effects of DCS and prevent further complications.

While nausea and vomiting, chest tightness, and fatigue can also be related to diving incidents, they are not as characteristic of DCS as joint and muscle pain. These other symptoms could arise from various causes, including panic, anxiety, or other medical conditions unrelated to DCS. Thus, understanding that joint and muscle pain is a hallmark indication of decompression sickness is important for any diver's safety and response protocol after a dive.